Pre-K - 5 Hawaiian Studies Teacher - Part-Time

HPA: an extraordinary place to work, teach, and live

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, we recognize that our mission, programs, and impact all begin with and depend upon the people of HPA. We seek individuals who believe in our mission and core values ; who share our commitment to the children of Hawai‘i Island as well as the dynamic young people who come to HPA from around the world. For all our positions, we seek individuals who demonstrate high standards of character, impressive work ethic, respect for equity and inclusion, and a welcoming spirit towards students, parents, fellow employees, and all within our community.

We are a school known for its sense of family, or ‘ohana, as we say here in Hawai‘i. We are located in one of the most beautiful places on the planet , where the landscape, ecosystems, history, and culture offer learning opportunities that can’t be found anywhere else.

We accept applications for open positions only. Please contact us with any questions in the human resources office, hr ; .

The Village Campus at Hawai?i Preparatory Academy is currently seeking a Part-time Lower School Hawaiian Studies Teacher to educate Pre-K–5 students in accordance with HPA’s curriculum, mission, and core values. The teacher creates a classroom environment that supports learning, personal growth, and cultural understanding while motivating students to develop the skills, attitudes, and knowledge needed for continued learning. Instruction and activities align with HPA’s Malama Kaiaulu sustainability framework and emphasize a strong connection to place and community.

In addition to academic instruction, our teachers play a key role in instilling HPA’s mission by helping students develop into responsible, compassionate, globally minded, and respectful citizens. The ideal candidate is flexible, patient, and nurturing, with a strong ability to collaborate with colleagues, integrate technology into the classroom, and demonstrate a passion for learning and growth.

The part‑time Lower School Hawaiian Studies teacher plans and teaches Pre‑K‑5 students in Hawaiian cultural practices and hula through weekly 30‑45‑minute lessons, with extended time during May Day preparation. This teacher plans and leads the May Day Ho`ike in collaboration with the K‑8 Music Teacher, and supports and co‑leads biweekly assemblies in the Lower School (every other Monday).

Plan and teach Hawaiian Studies to Pre‑K–5 students through weekly 30–45 minute lessons.

Provide instruction in Hawaiian cultural practices, olelo Hawai'i, history, chant, and hula.

Dedicate extended instructional time in the spring to prepare students for the annual May Day celebration.

Plan and lead the May Day Ho‘ike in collaboration with the K–8 Music Teacher.

Support and co‑lead biweekly Lower School assemblies (every other Monday).

Collaborate with faculty to create and implement place‑based learning opportunities aligned with Hawaiian culture and sustainability.

Coordinate and lead makahiki games at both the school and community levels in collaboration with the Middle School Hawaiian Language & History teacher.

Support Lower School faculty through co‑planning and, when appropriate, accompanying classes on field trips and other activities throughout the year.

Coordinate cultural performance components of school celebrations and ho'ike, including teaching students chants and hula.

Bachelor’s Degree and Teaching Credential or equivalent.

Experience in teaching elementary school students.

Skilled in collaborating with colleagues in curriculum development, design, and implementation.

Proficient written and oral communication skills that can inform families and students to keep them apprised of classroom progress.

Ability…